An Analysis of the Influence of Sensation Seeking, Religiosity, and Peer Relations on Deviant Inclinations

Leona Lee, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

ABSTRACT

The present study examines how religiosity, peer relations and sensation seeking relate to deviant inclinations for whites and nonwhites. It is hypothesized that sensation seekers are attracted to deviant activities, less religious and have unsteady relationship with their peers. Further, it is hypothesized that sensation seeking can account for the effects of religiosity and peer relations on deviant inclinations. The above hypotheses are tested using data collected from a nationwide sample of 737 college students.